The Detroit Lions Starting Depth Chart: A Comprehensive Look At The 2023 Season

Resetting the Lions depth chart after first two weeks of free agency from lionswire.usatoday.com

Are you a fan of the Detroit Lions and eager to know who will be starting in the upcoming 2023 season? Look no further! In this article, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the Lions' starting depth chart for each position, including quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, defensive line, linebacker, and defensive back. From seasoned veterans to promising rookies, we've got it all covered. So, let's dive in and examine the Lions' starting lineup for the 2023 season.

Quarterback

At the quarterback position, the Lions will be led by their star player, Matthew Stafford. Stafford has been the Lions' starting quarterback since 2009 and is widely regarded as one of the best quarterbacks in the league. He has a strong arm, excellent accuracy, and a great pocket presence. Backing him up will be David Blough, who joined the Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Blough has shown promise in his limited playing time and will continue to develop under Stafford's mentorship.

Running Back

In the backfield, the Lions will rely on their two-headed monster of D'Andre Swift and Kerryon Johnson. Swift was drafted by the Lions in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft and quickly established himself as a versatile and explosive running back. Johnson, a second-round pick in 2018, has battled injuries throughout his career but has shown flashes of brilliance when healthy. Together, Swift and Johnson will form a formidable duo and provide the Lions with a much-needed boost in the running game.

Wide Receiver

The Lions' receiving corps is led by their star player, Kenny Golladay. Golladay has emerged as one of the best receivers in the league and has developed a great rapport with Stafford. Alongside Golladay, the Lions will also feature Marvin Jones Jr. and rookie sensation Amon-Ra St. Brown. Jones Jr. is a reliable veteran who has been a consistent contributor for the Lions over the past few seasons. St. Brown, a fourth-round pick in 2023, has been turning heads in training camp with his impressive route running and hands.

Tight End

The Lions' tight end position will be anchored by their veteran player, T.J. Hockenson. Hockenson was drafted by the Lions in the first round of the 2019 NFL draft and has quickly established himself as one of the best tight ends in the league. He has great hands, excellent route running, and is a reliable blocker. Behind Hockenson, the Lions will feature Darren Fells, who was signed in free agency in 2023. Fells is an experienced veteran who will provide depth and leadership to the tight end room.

Offensive Line

The Lions' offensive line will feature a mix of veterans and young talent. At left tackle, Taylor Decker will anchor the line. Decker has been a consistent contributor for the Lions over the past few seasons and has developed into one of the best left tackles in the league. Alongside Decker, the Lions will feature Jonah Jackson, Frank Ragnow, Halapoulivaati Vaitai, and Penei Sewell. Jackson and Ragnow are both young players who have shown promise in their limited playing time. Vaitai was signed in free agency in 2020 and will provide depth and versatility to the line. Sewell, the Lions' first-round pick in 2023, is a highly touted rookie who is expected to make an immediate impact.

Defensive Line

The Lions' defensive line will be led by their star player, Trey Flowers. Flowers was signed in free agency in 2019 and has quickly established himself as one of the best defensive ends in the league. Alongside Flowers, the Lions will feature Michael Brockers, Da'Shawn Hand, and Levi Onwuzurike. Brockers was acquired in a trade with the Los Angeles Rams in 2023 and will provide depth and leadership to the line. Hand is a young player who has shown promise but has battled injuries throughout his career. Onwuzurike, the Lions' second-round pick in 2023, is a talented rookie who is expected to make an immediate impact.

Linebacker

The Lions' linebacker corps will be anchored by Jamie Collins Sr. Collins was signed in free agency in 2020 and has quickly established himself as a leader on the defense. Alongside Collins, the Lions will feature Alex Anzalone and Derrick Barnes. Anzalone was signed in free agency in 2023 and will provide depth and versatility to the linebacker room. Barnes, the Lions' third-round pick in 2023, is a talented rookie who is expected to make an immediate impact.

Defensive Back

The Lions' defensive backfield will feature a mix of veterans and young talent. At cornerback, the Lions will feature Jeff Okudah, Amani Oruwariye, and Quinton Dunbar. Okudah, the Lions' first-round pick in 2020, is a talented young player who is expected to take a big step forward in his second season. Oruwariye is a reliable veteran who has been a consistent contributor for the Lions over the past few seasons. Dunbar was signed in free agency in 2023 and will provide depth and experience to the cornerback room. At safety, the Lions will feature Tracy Walker and Will Harris. Walker is a talented young player who has shown promise in his limited playing time. Harris is a reliable veteran who has been a consistent contributor for the Lions over the past few seasons.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Detroit Lions' starting depth chart for the 2023 season features a mix of seasoned veterans and promising rookies. From Stafford to Sewell, the Lions have a talented roster that is primed to compete in the NFC North. While there are still questions to be answered, particularly on defense, the Lions have the pieces in place to make a run at the playoffs. So, Lions fans, get ready for an exciting season of football!